A SPECIAL barge trip will take place to recognise and thank the Maldon community for its resilience over the pandemic.

The trip, organised by Maldon District Council, will be attended by people from across the community including food bank volunteers and people involved in the vaccination rollout.

Bob Boyce, chairman of Maldon District Council, said it was an opportunity for him to thank those who had made a difference over the last four years.

He said: “Over the past three to four years, we have seen the amazing partnership work which has been undertaken throughout the district. “It therefore gives me great pleasure to invite representatives of the people and organisations who have helped to keep our residents safe.

“From food bank organisers to vaccine co-ordinators and a range of voluntary sector partners, to a special Barge Trip of recognition and thanks, on board one of our majestic Thames Barges.

“It will give me an opportunity to personally thank, on behalf of the whole community, some of the individuals and organisations who have been instrumental in delivering the national vaccine programme from the Council Offices to residents.

“Not only did they all do a fantastic job but they often worked long hours, in all weathers to get that job done.”

The trip had come under criticism from one councillor amid the backdrop of the cost of living crisis and Maldon District Council’s financial position.

Councillor Adrian Fulker said he had turned down his invitation, considering it to be inappropriate at this time.

He said: “Spending the money against the backdrop of the cost-of-living crisis, lengthening queues at local food banks and increases in energy and food costs is a slap in the face of local tax payers most of whom are struggling to make ends meet.”

But Mr Boyce said the trip was important to recognise all those who had helped support the Maldon district over the pandemic.